LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A Rector man has been arrested on multiple felony charges related to child sexual abuse materials. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin announced earlier this week that 36-year-old Joseph M. Parrish was taken into custody following an extensive investigation by his office.
Parrish faces 200 total counts in connection with the possession, distribution, and viewing of sexually explicit materials involving minors. Specifically, the charges include 100 counts of felony distribution, possession, or viewing of matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child. Additionally, Parrish is charged with 100 counts of felony pandering or possessing visual or print media that depicts sexually explicit conduct involving children.
The arrest was made after investigators with the Arkansas Attorney General’s office uncovered incriminating evidence through an online file-sharing system. The case was a collaborative effort, with significant support from the Arkansas State Police and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. The agencies worked together to execute a search warrant that ultimately led to Parrish’s arrest.
Attorney General Griffin expressed gratitude for the assistance provided by the Arkansas State Police and Clay County Sheriff’s Office in this investigation. “I am grateful for the assistance of our law enforcement partners in the execution of the search warrant that led to the arrest,” Griffin said in a statement.
Parrish’s arrest is part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat child exploitation and prevent the distribution of abusive materials online. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to child exploitation or abuse to come forward.
The investigation is ongoing, and Parrish is currently facing serious legal consequences. If convicted, he could face significant prison time on the charges brought against him.